The Premier League champions have sealed a deal worth €30 million for the Spain international, who spurned interest from Manchester United to move to west London
Chelsea have completed the signing of Barcelona forward Pedro in a deal worth €30 million, both clubs have confirmed.
The Spain international was allowed to miss training on Thursday to finalise the move, flying into London to undergo a medical after Chelsea hijacked Manchester United’s bid to sign him at the 11th hour.
“I am very happy to be here,” Pedro told the Blues’ official website. “I am very excited to start my adventure at Chelsea and I am here to keep winning titles.
“Thanks to the club and the supporters for giving me the opportunity to put the blue shirt on.”
A Barcelona statement read: “FC Barcelona and Chelsea FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of Pedro Rodriguez for 30 million euros, of which 3 million are dependent on performance.
“The club wishes to publicly express its gratitude to Pedro Rodriguez for his professionalism and dedication while with the club, as well as to wish him all the best in the future.”
Pedro leaves Barcelona having scored 99 goals in 326 appearances in all competitions and won 22 trophies, including five La Liga titles and three Champions League triumphs.
The 28-year-old remains well liked at Camp Nou but the big-money arrivals of Neymar and Luis Suarez in the past two seasons relegated him to the fringes of the team, and he started just 15 league games last season.
Disillusionment at his situation prompted Pedro to seek a move away from Catalonia and United came tantalisingly close to striking an agreement to sign the Spain international.
But the Red Devils’ unwillingness to match Barca’s asking price – coupled with conversations Pedro held with countrymen Victor Valdes and Cesc Fabregas – steered him towards Stamford Bridge once Chelsea made their late approach.